Georgia Senate Committee Approves Sports Betting Bill SB 386

Another sports gambling bill is advancing in Georgia, with supporters saying they believe they can legally set up betting under the purview of the Georgia Lottery Corporation without putting the issue to a statewide vote through a constitutional amendment. The Senate Economic Development and Tourism Committee voted 8-2 Tuesday to advance Senate Bill 386, which would create 16 sports betting licenses, with proceeds going toward the state's HOPE Scholarships and pre-kindergarten programs. However, there is a debate over whether such a move would be legal, as some believe a constitutional amendment would be required, while others, including the bill's sponsors, believe it isn't necessary. A second sports betting measure that would require a constitutional amendment cleared the Senate Regulated Industries & Utilities Committee earlier in the session.